Which Montauk Place Would You Drop $750K On?

Imagine you have around $750,000 to spend on a beach cottage and you've narrowed it down to two listings. How do you make up your mind? Simply shove them into a virtual cage and let the Real Estate Deathmatch begin! May the odds be ever in your favor.

A reader sent us a new listing for a trailer condo at Montauk Shores, asking $715K. A similar size freestanding house has been on the market for some time in Hither Hills, two blocks from the ocean beach, for $795K. (It's now in contract.) So we wondered which would be better: a unit in an oceanfront complex with pool and playground on site, or a freestanding house with a small backyard? Both abodes sorely need updating.

94 Madison Drive, Montauk
Asking: $795,000
Size: 750sf, with 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, on 0.12 acre of land
The Skinny: This cute house is located within walking distance of the ocean beach. The private backyard is fenced and there's a small basement area for storage. The house boasts bamboo floors and a small porch out front.

100 Deforest Road Unit 209, Montauk
Asking: $715,000
Size: 650sf, with 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths
The Skinny: Montauk Shores is right on the ocean, and there's a pool, playground and clubhouse on the premises. This unit offers a deck, outdoor shower and shed. There's central air and gas heat so it can be used year round.